Winter Workouts

I recently took a trip to the icy cold and snowing New York City. During my stay I came to appreciate more than ever the great weather we have here in California and how it makes it so much easier to exercise daily. I wondered what it would be like to live there- would I still be able to commit myself everyday? What would motivate me? How would I do it? For cardio purposes- theres nothing better than a good ole outdoor run. In icy weather just be careful of a few extra details. For weight lifting- if space permitted- I'd definately dedicate a space in my home for workouts- getting a great workout without much equipment is so easy these days- especially with all the D.V.D's and home workouts available. If that doesnt work out- I may need to join the all-mighty gym. Ya-the gym. The place I used to call home. Yet ran away from years ago and never looked back. It does have its advantages though- and I know many people that swear by it. So- its your choice- If you have the patience and stamina to run on a treadmill or elliptical by all the means thats your way to go- if you're like me and absolutely cant-take advantage of prospect and central park for your outdoor cardio. They both have mapped routes for your convenience- and runners are always there no matter the weather so thats motivation in itself.

If you chose to join a gym, I'd suggest joining with a friend. My biggest issue with belonging to a gym was actually motivating myself to get to one. I had the attitude of "If I dont get to the gym, I cannot work out". Which is not true- there are so many things you can do "out of the gym". However having a place that is indoors and you have all the equipment you need is essential to committing to a fitness program. So find a friend that will go with you- one that you know will stick with it. Don't pick someone that you know will find every reason to cancel on you- unfortunately thats only money lost on your part so be smart when picking someone. I'd suggest hiring a trainer for the first few times to get you started. If you are unable to- keep in mind that a lot of gyms offer free consultations for new joiners- so milk that for all its worth! Schedule a time to get evaluated. Ask the trainer good questions. Here are some great q's to ask to get the most out of your free consultation.

-Your weight

-Your measurements

-Your percentage of body fat

-Your BMI

-Whats a healthy weight range and body fat that you should be striving for

-Trainers are supposed to give you a tour of the gym and show you how to use the machinery. Tell them you already know the machines and what them to show you a few moves to do with free weights. The machines are easy to learn on your own- just read the instructions or watch someone doing them with their personal trainer. 

Once you've joined- become a good yenta. I always used to watch what other trainers were doing with their clients. Especially if you're going with a friend- come up with some great moves that you've learned on your own or seen others do and do it together. Just be careful with heavy weight lifting- I'd suggest using lighter weights if you're not being spotted or monitored by a professional.

If you chose the outdoor cardio, please be careful and follow these guidelines! The last thing you want is to injur yourself- it will only set you back weeks on your workouts so be smart about it.

Put on the Right Clothes

Layers that you can shed are essential. Start with a moisture-wicking base, a second layer for insulation, and an outer layer for blocking wind.

Protect Yourself

Most of your body heat is lost through your head and hands, so gloves and hat are a must. Make sure whatever you pick is light and can easily be shoved into a pocket if you get too hot. For your feet, choose wool running socks.

Use a Route

Especially with icy conditions, you want to make sure you're following a well-lit and paved route. Icy conditions means slippery and wet roads, so be very careful when chosing a route.

Try to use the right direction

If you can, try to run into the wind when you begin, and away from the wind when you finish. Running into the wind when you're all sweaty can cause stress and too much cold exposure.

Do a Good Warm-Up

Take time before you run to get your joints and body loose. Do your warm-up indoors, if possible, and focus on dynamic stretches like leg swings and walking toe touches- they tend to warm you up quickly.

Stay Hydrated

Winter months tend to be drier- and especially with the cold you feel less thirsty, but your body is still sweating so you need to replenish fluids just as if it were hot outside.

Whatever you chose..be safe and be reasonable. Know your limits and what you're capable of. Chose the method that you know and believe you can stick with.